🐔 11 Nesting Boxes For Chickens
Alright, listen up, fellow flock fanatics! You want happy hens, right? And seriously, who doesn’t love finding perfectly laid eggs in a clean, cozy spot instead of, well, everywhere? We’re talking about the holy grail of chicken keeping here: the nesting box. It’s not just a box; it’s a five-star resort for your feathered ladies to drop their daily masterpieces. Let’s ditch the floor eggs and dive into some seriously cluck-worthy nesting box ideas. Your hens will thank you for it, probably with more eggs.
1. The Classic Wooden Wonder
This is your grandma’s favorite, and for good reason. Wooden boxes are super sturdy and blend right into any rustic coop vibe. They offer natural insulation, keeping things cozy in winter and cooler in summer.
You can snag these ready-made or get your DIY on with some reclaimed wood. Pro tip: line them with pine shavings for a spa-like experience. This timeless choice gives your hens a sense of security.
2. Plastic Tote Perfection
Budget-friendly and ridiculously easy to clean, plastic totes are a game-changer. Just grab a sturdy one, cut an entry hole, and boom, instant nest box. They are lightweight and simple to move around.
Opt for opaque totes to give a darker, more private feel inside. Pro tip: secure them to the coop wall to prevent energetic hens from tipping them over. These are fantastic for a quick, no-fuss setup.
3. Sleek Metal Marvels
Want something that lasts forever and looks super industrial chic? Metal nesting boxes are your answer. They’re incredibly durable, resistant to pests, and surprisingly easy to wipe down.
While they might get a bit chilly in winter, adding extra bedding helps. Pro tip: choose galvanized steel for rust resistance and longevity. Your hens will appreciate the solid, no-nonsense structure.
4. Repurposed Milk Crate Chic
Who knew those humble milk crates could be so stylish? Turn them on their side, add some bedding, and you’ve got a surprisingly spacious and airy nest. They’re super cheap and readily available.
They stack well too, perfect for a tiered setup if you’re short on space. Pro tip: zip-tie them together or to the coop frame for stability. This DIY gem offers great ventilation and flexibility.
5. Rustic Wine Barrel Retreats
For a truly unique and charming look, cut a wine barrel in half lengthwise and create a couple of cozy hideaways. The natural wood provides excellent insulation and a super rustic aesthetic.
Make sure to sand down any rough edges to protect your ladies. Pro tip: elevate them slightly off the ground to keep them dry and pest-free. Your hens will feel like they’re laying in luxury.
6. DIY Straw Bale Sanctuaries
Okay, this might be more of a temporary solution, but it works! Stack a few straw bales to create a cozy, natural cubby. It’s great for beginners or if you need extra space during a flock expansion.
The bales offer incredible insulation and a natural, earthy feel. Pro tip: replace the top bale and bedding regularly to maintain hygiene. This option provides a warm, inviting space your hens will adore.
7. Upcycled Cat Carrier Comforts
Got an old cat carrier lying around? Repurpose it! Just remove the door, clean it thoroughly, and add some fresh bedding. They’re already enclosed, offering that private feel hens love.
The plastic makes them easy to clean and surprisingly durable. Pro tip: ensure there are no sharp edges from the removed door. This unexpected hack gives your hens a secure, ready-made haven.
8. Vintage Drawer Nooks
Hit up a thrift store or salvage yard for some old dresser drawers. Remove them from the dresser, give them a good scrub, and mount them in your coop. They offer a charming, upcycled look.
These are usually quite sturdy and provide a nice, deep space for bedding. Pro tip: paint them with non-toxic, outdoor-friendly paint for a pop of color and extra protection. Your hens will appreciate the cozy, private quarters.
9. Tiered Condo Coops
Why have one when you can have a whole apartment complex? Build or buy a multi-level nesting box unit. This design is fantastic for maximizing space in smaller coops or for larger flocks.
It gives your hens options and reduces crowding. Pro tip: ensure each level has enough head clearance for your biggest hen. This clever setup caters to multiple hens without taking up too much floor space.
10. The Roll-Away Revolution
For the ultimate in clean egg collection, consider roll-away nesting boxes. The floor is sloped, so eggs gently roll into a protected tray where hens can’t peck at them or get them dirty.
This design keeps eggs pristine and reduces breakage. Pro tip: check the collection tray daily to prevent eggs from piling up. This modern marvel saves you time and keeps your eggs spotless.
11. The “Secret” Private Nook
Sometimes, the best nesting box is just a well-placed, dark, and secluded spot. Think about creating a box that’s tucked away in a corner, perhaps under a shelf, or with a curtain over the entrance.
Hens naturally seek out dark, quiet places to lay. Pro tip: use a dark-colored fabric scrap for a curtain to really enhance the privacy. This simple trick makes any box feel like a VIP lounge for your egg layers.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks! Eleven ways to make your hens feel like royalty when they’re doing their daily duty. Remember, a happy hen is a productive hen, and a good nesting box is key to both. Now go forth and create some egg-cellent real estate for your flock. Happy hens, happy eggs, happy life!
